Philadelphia, 14 September, 1774.
I have written but once to you since I left you. This is to be imputed
to a variety of causes, which I cannot explain for want of time. It
would fill volumes to give you an exact idea of the whole tour. My time
is totally filled from the moment I get out of bed until I return to it.
Visits, ceremonies, company, business, newspapers, pamphlets, etc.,
etc., etc.
The Congress will, to all present appearance, be well united, and in
such measures as, I hope, will give satisfaction to the friends of our
country. A Tory here is the most despicable animal in the creation.
Spiders, toads, snakes are their only proper emblems. The Massachusetts
councillors and addressers are held in curious esteem here, as you will
see. The spirit, the firmness, the prudence of our province are vastly
applauded, and we are universally acknowledged the saviours and
defenders of American liberty. The designs and plans of the Congress
must not be communicated until completed, and we shall move with great
deliberation.
When I shall come home I know not, but at present I do not expect to
take my leave of this city these four weeks.
My compliments, love, service, where they are due. My babes are never
out of my mind, nor absent from my heart. Adieu.